Russian Wanted for Construction Fraud Arrested in Phuket

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

A Russian national wanted under an international arrest warrant has been arrested in Phuket after allegedly opening a construction company and colluding in bid rigging that caused losses of more than 100 million baht. Thai immigration police confirmed the suspect, whose name was withheld, had been hiding in Phuket before his arrest on 20 January 2026, with authorities moving swiftly to revoke his visa and prepare his deportation.

The arrest followed coordination between Phuket Immigration and the Foreign Affairs Division after intelligence indicated the suspect was residing in the provincial capital. Officers located the man at his residence in Phuket town, identified themselves and presented an Interpol arrest warrant before taking him into custody. Immigration officials then initiated procedures to cancel his visa and arrange his return to his home country to face legal proceedings.

According to police, the suspect is accused of establishing a construction company that engaged in bid rigging on construction projects, a fraudulent act under Russian law. The alleged scheme resulted in financial damage exceeding 100 million baht. After the offences were uncovered, the suspect fled abroad and later entered Thailand, where he remained until his arrest.

The operation was led by officers from Phuket Immigration under the direction of Pol Col Khemchat Watthanaphakasem, Superintendent of Phuket Immigration. The investigation team included Pol Lt Col Wisarut La-iat-ong, Deputy Superintendent, and Pol Maj Adison Boonchum, Inspector, along with immigration investigators. The arrest was carried out after sustained surveillance confirmed the suspect’s location.

Immigration authorities stated that the case reflects Thailand’s stricter enforcement policy against foreign nationals who enter the country to conceal themselves while committing or evading serious crimes. The policy aims to prevent foreigners from exploiting Thailand as a safe haven.

Pol Col Khemchat said Phuket Immigration would continue rigorous screening and inspections to identify individuals who pose risks to society. He added that the measures are intended to protect the safety of residents and ensure confidence among tourists who enter Phuket legally. Authorities reaffirmed that cooperation with international law enforcement remains a priority.

Khoasod reported that the suspect will be formally deported after visa revocation procedures are completed. He will be handed over to the relevant authorities in his home country to face prosecution in line with the international warrant. Thai immigration officials confirmed they will continue monitoring and enforcement operations across Phuket.

Key Takeaways

• A Russian man wanted by Interpol was arrested in Phuket on 20 January 2026 for alleged construction bid rigging.

• Police say the fraud caused losses of more than 100 million baht and the suspect had been hiding in Phuket.

• Thai immigration are revoking his visa and will deport him to face legal action abroad.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2026-01-21